Situation with Robinson Family

[1Togo]

I have not been asked to do this, but I am writing because there is a situation occuring with the Robinson family that might interest homeschoolers since all of the children were homeschooled. At present, three of the children are trying to complete their doctorates in nuclear engineeering, and they are being threatened with dismissal for no apparent reason. They have stellar grades. They have passed numerous reviews, etc. The work and the equipment that the oldest student designed and built has been confiscated, and he has now been refused access to the lab where he has worked for four years. The two other children are being threatened as well. If you would like further information, please send me a pm.

[jewel7123]

Who are the Robinsons?

[1Togo]

The Robinsons are a family with six children. Their mother died, and their father continued to homeschool the children after their mother's death. It is a remarkable story.

[SonshineLearner]

I just heard this Wednesday!! I think it may be good for us to do some sort of writing in to the school. I'd love to hear specifics...

[twoxcell]

She is talking about Art Robinson. He sells this curriculum. He recently ran for congress in my state, and lost. He was the first person to really challenge the incumbent.

[jewel7123]

Ok, I have heard of the Robinson Curriculum....just in passing, never looked into it. I wondered if this family was affiliated.

[Spy Car]

Who are the Robinsons?

 

Art Robinson is a kook and conspiracy-theorist of the most unhinged variety.

 

Robinson has denied HIV causes AIDS and believes exposure to low-levels of nuclear radiation is good for people (good news for the people of Japan). Robinson would actually have radioactive nuclear waste spread around the world for its health benefits.

 

Robinson also believes the best way to deal with toxic waste is to pump it to the bottom of the deep ocean floor. One could go on and on about Art Robinson's "ideas."

 

Tragically for the homeschool community, Robinson advocates for an educational model of home learning where children as young as six teach themselves with the aid of flash-cards and books but next to no actual parent involvement.

 

Art Robinson has zero credibility in my book.

 

OSU has released a statement:

 

It is regrettable that Mr. Robinson continues to spread these false claims, causing concern where none is due.* Despite the significant and ongoing attention that the university has given these matters, he has engaged in a pattern of inflammatory and reckless communication riddled with inaccuracies.

 

http://oregonstate.edu/ua/ncs/archives/2011/mar/statement-regarding-recent-internet-postings-art-robinson-0

 

What a guy :glare:

 

Bill

[Gooblink]

While I do believe there are 2 (or more) sides to every story...Bill, c'mon. You just can't pass up one of these threads, can you? :)

[Lisabeth]

But why are the children being punished for their father's beliefs??? Or aren't they. I would love more info please.

[nmoira]

I read this and this, and he lost me at "DeFazio political machine." I would want a *lot* more information before giving credit to these allegations, especially when Robinson is so selective with the facts he presents about the 2010 election and with his characterization of OSU as a "liberal socialist Democrat stronghold." One wonders why his children would wish to attend such a school.

Edited March 18, 2011 by nmoira
Spelling

[Rivka]

Keep in mind that federal law prohibits OSU from telling their side of the story. I have to say, though, that as someone who has spent the last 15 years associated with academic departments, the whole premise seems ludicrous to me. Academia works in unpleasant and petty ways sometimes, but it doesn't work that way.

 

I do think it would be an interesting assignment for a high school logic student to go through Robinson's statement (linked by nmoira) identifying the fallacies.

[nmoira]

Keep in mind that federal law prohibits OSU from telling their side of the story. I have to say, though, that as someone who has spent the last 15 years associated with academic departments, the whole premise seems ludicrous to me. Academia works in unpleasant and petty ways sometimes, but it doesn't work that way.

I've never known any group comprised of academics to be organized enough to get a material for a grant application ready by the deadline without significant prodding from staff, or organize and carry out lunch... much less a conspiracy.

 

Or maybe that's what they want us to think...:tongue_smilie:

[ElizaG]

If it were just one of the Robinson children being disciplined, I'd be more willing to believe OSU's claim that there's a legitimate reason. But all three of them? :confused: This seems like something that needs to be investigated, whether or not one agrees with their dad's beliefs.

[skueppers]

Keep in mind that federal law prohibits OSU from telling their side of the story. I have to say, though, that as someone who has spent the last 15 years associated with academic departments, the whole premise seems ludicrous to me. Academia works in unpleasant and petty ways sometimes, but it doesn't work that way.

 

What she said. I have extensive experience in academia, and this just doesn't ring true to me.

 

If the Robinson children are indeed being forced out of the Nuclear Engineering program, I'd be more inclined to believe it was due to a disagreement about science rather than a disagreement about politics.

 

But of course, we have no way to verify the validity of the most basic facts here, such as whether the children are in fact being forced out, let alone why.

[Snowfall]

If it were just one of the Robinson children being disciplined, I'd be more willing to believe OSU's claim that there's a legitimate reason. But all three of them? :confused: This seems like something that needs to be investigated, whether or not one agrees with their dad's beliefs.

 

It has been investigated. They said it didn't happen. That's all they're legally allowed to say. Interestingly, I don't see Art Robinson's children claiming any of this has happened. One would think they'd be suing if any of this were true. I certainly would be. Not for money - just for my stuff, my grades, my right to graduate.

[nmoira]

 

It has been investigated. They said it didn't happen. That's all they're legally allowed to say. Interestingly, I don't see Art Robinson's children claiming any of this has happened. One would think they'd be suing if any of this were true. I certainly would be. Not for money - just for my stuff, my grades, my right to graduate.

Here's a Register-Guard editorial with more information.

[EKS]

Robinson has denied HIV causes AIDS and believes exposure to low-levels of nuclear radiation is good for people (good news for the people of Japan).

 

While I agree that Art Robinson is a bit of a wingnut, the idea that low levels of radiation being healthful is not entirely without merit. There are repair mechanisms in the body that are activated by exposure to radiation. It is interesting that the Seattle area has one of the highest rates of cancer in the nation and Denver (at 5000+ feet) has one of the lowest.

[Snowfall]

Here's a Register-Guard editorial with more information.

 

And his son says he doesn't even know if the allegations are true. lol I'm pretty sure any reasonable adult should know whether or not these things were actually happening to them.

[ElizaG]

It has been investigated. They said it didn't happen.

But what if "they're" not doing their job properly, and are turning a blind eye to corrupt behavior among some of the faculty? That's the issue here, and I think it's a real concern. Setting aside the unique circumstances of this case, it's not unheard of for students to claim that advisors stole their research, and that the administration did nothing about it. Given that OSU is a state institution, it seems as if there should be some sort of procedure for allegations like this.

 

That's all they're legally allowed to say. Interestingly, I don't see Art Robinson's children claiming any of this has happened. One would think they'd be suing if any of this were true. I certainly would be. Not for money - just for my stuff, my grades, my right to graduate.

The children have claimed this themselves. Just a quick search came up with this interview that Joshua gave over a week ago.

 

I also came across an editorial mentioning that Joshua has waived his right to privacy. If this is true, I hope it means that this can be cleared up easily. If not, the way things are going, I'd guess this will turn into a lawsuit.

[nmoira]

The children have claimed this themselves. Just a quick search came up with this interview that Joshua gave over a week ago.

 

No one is denying that academics can be petty and self-interested, but I'm not sure anyone would want to take on the role of advisor with the prospect of Robinson peering over their shoulder for a year or two. However, Robinson isn't alleging pettiness, but rather has made some specific and outlandish allegations about a political opponent and the university as a whole. Allegations for which there is no evidence and which strain credulity. His children are not making these allegations. Edited March 18, 2011 by nmoira

[ElizaG]

No one is denying that academics can be petty and self-interested, but I'm not sure anyone would want to take on the role of advisor with the prospect of Robinson peering over their shoulder for a year or two.

I'm not sure what you mean. His children have been in the PhD program for several years already, and, according to Joshua, he already had a committee. Are you saying it's okay to kick them out now, because of their father's behavior relating to Joshua being disciplined? That seems kind of circular.

[Elizabeth in MN]

None of this drama has anything to do with this education board.

[nmoira]

I'm not sure what you mean. His children have been in the PhD program for several years already, and, according to Joshua, he already had a committee. Are you saying it's okay to kick them out now, because of their father's behavior relating to Joshua being disciplined? That seems kind of circular.[/Quote] Did you see this from the Register-Guard editorial?

 

Robinson went public with his accusations only recently, but has been making complaints to OSU administrators since shortly after the election. It’s unusual for a parent to become so closely involved in academic matters involving graduate students in their 20s and 30s. Robinson demanded the right to choose which faculty members his children would work with, and threatened to activate his network of supporters if OSU did not comply. OSU quite rightly declined —indeed, it would be a scandal if OSU gave in to such demands.

[Rivka]

Not the first time Robinson has had issues with trying to control his kids' experiences in higher education. He pitched a massive fit over his daughter Arynne being required to take a humanities seminar:

http://www.accesstoenergy.com/view/ate/s41p889.htm

 

According to the Eugene Weekly, in that case "Robinson claims the school was intimidated by his threats of a costly telephone, fax and letter campaign by his “subscribers and home-schooling friends.†"

 

The article I linked to is incredibly over-the-top, and if it's a good example of Robinson's level of involvement in the universities his kids attend, I understand why Joshua can't find a faculty advisor.

[nmoira]

And just to clarify, they are not being kicked out. Life isn't fair, and this is doubly so for grad students. While I hope Joshua is able to find an advisor and establish a committee, he is unfortunately not unique in his position.

[angela in ohio]

Not the first time Robinson has had issues with trying to control his kids' experiences in higher education.

 

Ironic, considering his homeschooling method.

[FairProspects]

I just don't get it. If you go to a university, you have to play by their rules. If you don't like the rules, go to a different university or program. You can't (nor should you be able to) just waltz in and only take the classes you want while being degree-eligible. Presumably, Mr. (Dr.?) Robinson knows this since he has a degree. If he is so against SOU's religion class policy, why does he send his kids there? Send them to a Christian college where they would not have this problem!

 

I grew up in Corvallis in the shadow of OSU and I hate to see this kind of slandering going on.

[Rivka]

I'm not sure what you mean. His children have been in the PhD program for several years already, and, according to Joshua, he already had a committee. Are you saying it's okay to kick them out now, because of their father's behavior relating to Joshua being disciplined? That seems kind of circular.

 

Didn't Robinson's article say that Joshua's advisor moved to a different university? If that's the case, Joshua would need a new local advisor, and honestly, that can be hard in the best of circumstances - especially if work had progressed significantly with the previous advisor. It can mean essentially starting over.

 

In many grad programs, you are admitted to work with a specific professor, and that professor is the one who sort of sponsors your admission and undertakes to fund you in their lab. It's very much an apprenticeship model in many places - especially in the hard sciences. If the person you were "apprenticed" to leaves, and doesn't take you with them for some reason, and, perhaps, you are a difficult person who hasn't made connections to anyone else in the department or who has actively alienated people, you are in an awkward position.

[Rivka]

Also, as someone who graduated from Reed College in Portland, I have to say that the idea that OSU and Southern Oregon U are dangerous hotbeds of radical leftist thought has me :lol: .

[nmoira]

Also, as someone who graduated from Reed College in Portland, I have to say that the idea that OSU and Southern Oregon U are dangerous hotbeds of radical leftist thought has me :lol: .

Good for you! DH attended Reed, but didn't finish there. His juggling skills are still first rate, however.

 

It seems that anyone to the left of Robinson is radical in his estimation.

[unsinkable]

None of this drama has anything to do with this education board.

 

Pssst...

 

From the top of the page:

 

Parents' Forum General Board: For general questions about classical education methods, teaching techniques, readiness, supplemental activities, field trips, assessments, frustrations, online resources, etc. or just for hanging out and chatting!

[FairProspects]

Also, as someone who graduated from Reed College in Portland, I have to say that the idea that OSU and Southern Oregon U are dangerous hotbeds of radical leftist thought has me :lol: .

 

:iagree:and :lol:.

[nmoira]

Pssst...

 

From the top of the page:

 

Parents' Forum General Board: For general questions about classical education methods, teaching techniques, readiness, supplemental activities, field trips, assessments, frustrations, online resources, etc. or just for hanging out and chatting!

This thread was moved over from the K8 board after her post.

[simka2]

This thread was moved over from the K8 board after her post.

 

 

:D Good to know I wasn't going crazy!!!

[redsquirrel]

people's grad advisors move all the time. I have a good friend here who had to move here due to her grad chair changing university. It happens. It's not fun, but it happens. She considers herself lucky her chair insisted on bringing his students with him. Many don't.

[myfunnybunch]

his characterization of OSU as a "liberal socialist Democrat stronghold."

 

*snort* :001_huh:

 

I nearly spit out my coffee when I read that. :lol: I've always thought of OSU as the university Oregonians attend when they want to avoid the liberal socialist Democrat stronghold that is University of Oregon. ;) (Totally tongue-in-cheek, by the way. Well, almost totally.)

 

I've never looked into the Robinson curriculum and did not make the connection between the curriculum and that Art Robinson. Yikes.

 

Cat

[unsinkable]

This thread was moved over from the K8 board after her post.

 

ooops...

 

Sorry, Elizabeth!

 

I'm glad I didn't make some smartmouth comment about seeing your Board Police badge. :lol:

[FaithManor]

I don't know enough about Art Robinson to draw a conclusion. We did live in Oregon for a couple of years and the gals that lived next door to us were both PH.D advisors, one in psychology and one in toxicology both at OSU. This was in the 90's and I can tell you that there were far more ph.d. candidates desperate for an advisor than there were advisors to go around. It was cut-throat, difficult, and only the strong appeared to survive. Every student they advised, that we saw, and they were good about inviting them to their homes for meetings and encouragement, looked SHREDDED and exhausted! A lot like surgical interns on 48 hour shifts being used as every resident's personal whipping post.

 

Knowing first hand what my own cousin went through in the late 80's to find an advisor for her PH.D. at Michigan State University (environmental science), I'd be more inclined to believe that Joshua Robinson is just plodding through the same academic quicksand that all PH.D.'s in competitive fields must haul themselves through and that there is no grand conspiracy regardless of his father's views.

 

I agree with Rivka on this.

 

Faith

[kalanamak]

The Robinsons are a family with six children. Their mother died, and their father continued to homeschool the children after their mother's death. It is a remarkable story.

 

At least they aren't protesting at funerals.

[ElizaG]

If the person you were "apprenticed" to leaves, and doesn't take you with them for some reason, and, perhaps, you are a difficult person who hasn't made connections to anyone else in the department or who has actively alienated people, you are in an awkward position.

Is there any evidence that the son is a difficult person, though? He comes across as pretty mild-mannered. And the fact that his sister is finding herself in a similar predicament makes this seem quite fishy to me.

 

Something that hasn't been mentioned is that it's not just the Robinsons saying these things. According to the articles, the family was first informed about this situation last fall, by a professor who's been at OSU for a long time and seems to have a very good reputation. (Earlier this year, his colleagues chose him to be head of the Faculty Senate.) He was at meetings in which, he claims, certain people were cooking up plans to oust the Robinson children. He warned the family about this, and has been supportive of them ever since. If the family is delusional about this, then so is he.

 

I'm finding it hard to believe that this sort of scenario is par for the course in graduate departments. :001_huh:

[Spy Car]

Not the first time Robinson has had issues with trying to control his kids' experiences in higher education. He pitched a massive fit over his daughter Arynne being required to take a humanities seminar:

http://www.accesstoenergy.com/view/ate/s41p889.htm

 

According to the Eugene Weekly, in that case "Robinson claims the school was intimidated by his threats of a costly telephone, fax and letter campaign by his “subscribers and home-schooling friends.†"

 

The article I linked to is incredibly over-the-top, and if it's a good example of Robinson's level of involvement in the universities his kids attend, I understand why Joshua can't find a faculty advisor.

 

Ironic, considering his homeschooling method.

 

No kidding!

 

Here is a small glimpse of the advice Art Robinson offers as a homeschooling method (from his website):

 

"When your eight-year-old child is all alone at his large desk in a quiet room with his Saxon 65 book and has been there three hours already—with most of that time spent in childhood daydreams —and says, "Mommy, I don't know how to work this problem," give him a wonderful gift. Simply reply, "Then you will need to keep studying until you can work the problem."

 

Maybe there is a discontect between what he sells and what he does, hmmm?

 

Bill

[Anne in CA]

Now that the thread is dying anyway I will just chip in to say two things, I met two of Art Robinson's children at a convention and found them to be slightly odd, but nice all the way through. I work in a large hotel and meet all sorts of people and these young people were very unusual, but in a very refreshing way.

 

Art Robinson himself did me a small favor several years ago very promptly when I asked him to, and he was kind. Calling anyone you don't personally know a crackpot is judgemental on a level that defies credibility, IMO.

[Elizabeth in MN]

ooops...

 

Sorry, Elizabeth!

 

I'm glad I didn't make some smartmouth comment about seeing your Board Police badge. :lol:

 

Hey, I LOVE the shiny badge I gave myself. *wink* Let me hypnotize you with it's loveliness :D

 

I wouldn't have minded it being over here on the General board, but I was miffed at the one on the K8 board and the other one on the Logic board. I have curriculum reviews to read, and thoughts of jumping ship to entertain!

[nmoira]

 

Calling anyone you don't personally know a crackpot is judgemental on a level that defies credibility, IMO.

Except that Art Robinson is a public person and is not shy about sharing his views. In my book, he's a crackpot. You, of course, are free to have a different opinion. FWIW, crackpots can be kind, considerate, and well mannered.

[kalanamak]

Ironic, considering his homeschooling method.

 

Actually, not so odd. I have found that when Mom is very old, and had a full and wonderful life, and "would never want to live on a machine" (per the kids who actually were involved with her life), the ONE offspring who 1) never visits, 2) is angry in general, and 3) is spoken of in quiet tones by all the other children, is INevitably the one that pitches a fit and wants "everything" done for Mom.

 

(Speaking of Moms, I can hear mine, sotto voce, responding to this story with "Methinks the gentleman doth protesteth too much." :D)

[LizzyBee]

No kidding!

 

Here is a small glimpse of the advice Art Robinson offers as a homeschooling method (from his website):

 

"When your eight-year-old child is all alone at his large desk in a quiet room with his Saxon 65 book and has been there three hours already—with most of that time spent in childhood daydreams —and says, "Mommy, I don't know how to work this problem," give him a wonderful gift. Simply reply, "Then you will need to keep studying until you can work the problem."

 

Maybe there is a discontect between what he sells and what he does, hmmm?

 

Bill

 

I remember reading that and thinking how ironic it is that Robinson is seen as a gentle curriculum while WTM is sometimes mockingly referred to as the Well Fried Mind. I'm certain SWB would never advocate such a thing!

[ElizaG]

Having read several articles about the Robinson Curriculum when I was first looking into homeschooling, I think it might be necessary to point out that their "independent learning" model applies only to the curriculum itself. Outside of study hours (in which the parent is supposed to sit nearby, doing his or her own work), he recommends that families live and work very closely together. If anything, by conventional standards, he takes parent-child togetherness to an extreme.

 

http://www.robinsoncurriculum.com/view/rc/s31p718.htm

 

The nursing home analogy would seem to be neither relevant nor kind.

[Joyofsixreboot]

I was supposed to do the curriculum WITH them?:tongue_smilie: (sorry, I just can't help being contrary).

[Spy Car]

Except that Art Robinson is a public person and is not shy about sharing his views. In my book, he's a crackpot. You, of course, are free to have a different opinion. FWIW, crackpots can be kind, considerate, and well mannered.

 

Theoretically a crackpot might be kind, considerate and well mannered, but anyone who wants a window into Art Robinson's manner only has to Goggle "Art Robinson Rachael Maddow" to see how this man actually comports himself :001_huh:

Bill

[unsinkable]

I remember reading that and thinking how ironic it is that Robinson is seen as a gentle curriculum while WTM is sometimes mockingly referred to as the Well Fried Mind. I'm certain SWB would never advocate such a thing!

 

I truly have NEVER heard that.